Fourth of July sparks summer fun

July 1, 2008

Welcome once again to the Brighton Buzz! Thank you all for reading this column and all the positive feedback I've received; it is greatly appreciated.

Barbara Marshall and her "gang" are still busy making sure all the folks of the town of Brighton have plenty to eat. If anyone has a need or question on when the pantry is open, give Barbara a call at 327-3297.

The Brighton History Days will be held at the Moody Tree Farm in Gabriels on July 19 and 20. Stories and photographs of early settlers of the area will be on display as well as activities for the young ones, wagon rides around the farm and plenty of food for all.

For further information, call Pat and Tom Willis at 327-3433 or MaryEllen Salls at 327-3509.

Fourth of July celebrations will be held at many different sites, with picnics and parades and, after the sun goes down, displays of fireworks. Please be safe when around fireworks, and don't get burned.

With the July 4th celebrations, which are a kickoff for the summer, I'd like to take this time to remind everyone to play it safe in the summer heat.

Go out during the cooler times of the day, early in the morning or late in the evening. If you do have to go out during the hottest times of the day, don't overdo yourself. Drink plenty of hydration-type drinks: lemonade, Powerade-type drinks and good old-fashioned water.

Older folks and very young children are especialy at risk for heat-related dangers, so those folks should be particuarly careful in the heat. Remember to wear a wide-brim hat while out in the sun and use your sunscreen lotion with the highest recommended SPF rating.

School is out, and there will be many days of activity with ball games in the park, riding your bike, swimming and many other activities. Remember to keep your mind active as well by reading your favorite books this summer.

Don't forget to wear your helmets when riding your bikes, too! Mom and Dad, please take the time to check your child's helmet for proper fit, and if it is worn or cracked, please replace it with a new one.

A reminder to all: We have the VIC (Visitors Interpretive Center) in our neighborhood. A nice Sunday afternoon family outing can be had walking the paths and checking out the wildlife footprints; try to find as many as you can! The VIC is located on state Route 30, going north, just outside Paul Smiths. You can call the folks there for times and other planned activities at 327-3000.